CMTC Summer Camp

Summer Camp 2012

2011-09-18T17:16:00.001-04:00

Details of Summer Camp 2012 will be posted around Feb 2012; please visit this page for updates ...

Pictures from Week#5

2011-07-25T00:24:00.001-04:00

Pictures from Week#4

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Pictures from Week#3

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Pictures from Week#2

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Week 2: Day 5!

2011-07-07T11:20:00.015-04:00

Hari Om!

We welcomed the last day of the second week of camp with Yoga by Ramanathan Mama!

The Keshava and Balarama class learned about the Simhachalam temple located in Vishakapatnam in Andra Pradesh. They saw a display containing Kondapalli style Dashavatara idols - these statues are Andra specialties.

Uma Auntie taught our friends the patriotic song from an old Hindi film, "Vo Bharat Desh Hai Mera". We have recorded our friends beautiful voices here!

And with one last arts and crafts project, the week came to an end!

ॐ

Week 2: Day 4!

2011-07-07T10:12:00.016-04:00

Hari Om!

As usual, Thursday started off with our daily Chanting and Yoga sessions.

The Balarma and Keshava classes then split up to each talk about the famous Venkateswara Temple - Tirupati. In addition to learning the story behind the founding of the temple, our friends also learned the significance behind why we shave our heads at Tirupati. In honor of the warm weather, the Balarama Class had class outside!

Thursday ended with Arts and Crafts with Rupal Auntie! The younger kids painted paper mache suns while the Balarama class finished up painting their figures!

ॐ

Week 2: Day 3!

2011-07-07T09:40:00.013-04:00

Hari Om!

Chanting and Yoga continued as usual on Wednesday.

In the classes, our friends learned about the Gomatheswara Temple. Uday shares what he learned about this Jain temple found in Karnataka.

Everyday before we eat Snack and Lunch, our friends say the prayer "Brahmarpanam". Usually the didis and bhaiyas lead the prayer and our friends follow - however, they surprised us today by leading us in the prayer instead!

Afternoon time meant arts and crafts with Rupal Auntie again! Our younger friends from the Keshava class decorated and colored flowerpots while our Balarama class friends primed paper mache projects that they would paint the next day!

ॐ

Week 2: Day 2!

2011-06-29T14:46:00.015-04:00

Hari Om!

The day started off with chanting again and continued with Yoga.

The Balarama and Keshava learned about the Mookambika temple. Vineeth, our Balarama class friend, said, "The Mookambika temple is located in the town of Kollur in Bangalore. Mookambika is an avatar of Parvati. The story starts like this: Once there was an asura. He was trying to get eternal power by praying to Shiva. He was praying to Shiva because Shiva is the easiest to please. When Parvati heard his prayers she knew he was up to no good. So she asked Saraswati, the Goddess of Speech, to help her. So Saraswati made the asura mute. Now he is called Mukasura, to see that he couldn't talk. He teased some Yogis in the Forest. When Parvati saw this, she took the form of Mookambika and slayed him. Shri Adi Shankaracharya installed the idol of Mookambika."

We ended the day with Arts and Crafts with Rupal Auntie! The children painted various sun and moon magnets :D

ॐ

Week 2: Day 1!

2011-06-29T10:54:00.016-04:00

Hari Om!

We welcomed the new week by continuing the chanting of the Ganesha Atharva Shirsham with Nirmala and Puskhala Auntie! We learned that Ganesha has big ears so that he can listen to our prayers as well as to all the good things in the world.

Yoga time included some new poses including the boat pose (first picture below) and Shayanasana (reclining pose - just like Lord Ranganatha).

In the classes, the kids learned about the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple in the state of Karnataka. Hamsini, our friend from the Keshava class, shares with us the story of Kanakadasa in association with the Sri Krishna Temple.

Our friend Nihal, from the Balarama class, writes: "On Monday we had a really awesome lesson. It was about the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple. This temple was located in the state of Karnataka and built by the sage Madhavacharya. In the temple there was an idol of Muthu (little) Krishna. We also learned about the caste system. At the top are the Brahmans (scholars) and the Kshatriyas (warriors). At the bottom are the Vaishas (merchants), Shudras (workers) and the untouchables. There is a story that happened at this very temple. A swamiji named Kanakadasa approched the temple and he wanted to pray to Muthu Krishna. The priests however told him that he could not step in the temple as Kanakadasa was a Shudra which was a low caste. Kanakadasa then went to the western wall of the temple. He imagined the idol's picture in his mind. That way he could still chant his mantras and pray. It is said that Krishna turned around from the East to the West and blasted the wall that way the sage could make direct contact to his idol. In the present time they buillt back the wall and left a window called Kanakanakindi which means Kanaka's window which is the only way to give offerings to Krishna. Hari Om."

In the afternoon, our friends made decoupage boxes with Rupal Auntie!

ॐ

Week 1: Day 5!

2011-06-28T10:10:00.012-04:00

Hari Om!

We welcomed the last day of the week with chanting with Nirmala Auntie and yoga with Ramanathan Mama!

The Balarama and Keshava classes continued the day by talking about the Palani Temple - a shrine dedicated to Lord Muruga that was constructed on top of a hill.

Later on in the day - the kids had Satsang with Swamiji where they asked him a variety of questions and Swamiji shared stories with the children.

We finished off the day by making bracelets with Rupal Auntie!

ॐ

Week 1: Day 4!

2011-06-28T09:40:00.013-04:00

Hari Om!

We started off Thursday with chanting with Nirmala Auntie again - yoga came after that!

The Keshava and Balarama groups both learned about the Arunachaleswar temple. Located in Tiruvanamalai, Tamil Nadu, this temple features Annamalaiyar or Arunachaleswar (a form of Lord Shiva) and his consort Unnamalaiyaal (a form of Goddess Parvati). It is one of the "Pancha Bootha Sthalams" - which are five temples across Tamil Nadu that represent the five elements of nature (Fire, Water, Earth, Sky, Wind). The Arunachaleswar Temple represents the element of Fire - this is in accordance with the story of how Lord Shiva once took the form of an endless fire lingam.

Our friend, Hari, shares with us a variation of the story and explains why Brahma temples are so rare.

In the afternoon, our friends made and decorated door hangers with Rupal Aunti.

ॐ

Week 1: Day 3!

2011-06-22T13:28:00.022-04:00

Hari Om!

Nirmala Auntie started our day off again, continuing to teach us the Ganesha Atharva Shirsham. She shared with us today that this stotram, a vedic chant, has origins prior to even the Puranic period - which was the time period of Rama and Krishna.

During Yoga time, our friends learned a lot of new Yoga poses including the Lion Pose and the Dancer's Pose.

The younger children - the Keshava class - learned about the Srirangam Temple. Our friend Abhiram shares what he learned:

The Balarama class - the older children - learned about the Brahadeeshwara Temple today. Aditi shares what she learned about this Shiva Temple.

Rupal Auntie made hanging decorations with our friends to finish up our day!

ॐ

Week 1: Day 2!

2011-06-22T09:21:00.001-04:00

Hari Om!

We started off our second day at summer camp with chanting the Ganesha Atharva Shirsham with Nirmala Aunti again - we learned the Shanti Mantra, the initial portion of the stotram, and the first two verses. We learned that we must not chant the stotram mechanically, that we must concentrate while doing Vedic Chanting because of the numerous differences in the intonation of the words.

Next on our schedule was Yoga time!

We ended Yoga by spending a few minutes in the relaxing Shavasan pose (also known as the "Dead Man's Pose").

In their classes, the older and younger children learned about the Srirangam and Brahadeeshwar Temples, respectively. The Srirangam Temple, often said to be the largest functional Hindu Temple, located in Srirangam, Tamil Nadu contains the idol of Lord Ranganatha, the reclining form of Lord Vishnu. Aneesha said of the deity in the Srirangam Temple: "The Ranganatha is a very famous idol that got stolen. The idol’s eyes were made of diamonds. The idol has great value and that’s why the people stole the famous idol."

The Brahadeeshwar Temple, in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, contains a huge Shiva Linga - the priests require a ladder to do Abhishekam for this Linga. Our friend, Aryaman said: "It was made by a King and it was really big and the whole thing was made out of granite - it was a ton of pounds! The Shiva Linga was really big - almost like 20 feet tall."

In the afternoon, the kids painted and decorated picture frames with Rupal Auntie!

ॐ

Welcome to 2011 Summer Camp!

2011-06-21T09:55:00.000-04:00

Hari Om!

With Guruji's and Swamiji's blessings, and with chants of Om.... Om... Om.... we welcomed the first day of Summer Camp for this year. We were very excited and happy to see many returning faces and a number of new faces as well!

We began the day by learning to chant the Ganesha Atharva Shirsham with Nirmala Auntie. Unlike the Kanakadhara Storam, written by Adi Shankaracharya, that we learned last year, the Ganesha Atharva Shirsham has no author - it is a vedic chant that was passed down orally over the years.

We then took some time to get to know each other as the Summer Camp Family. Yoga was next on our schedule followed by the first introductory class.

The theme for this year's camp is "Temples of India" - and the younger and older children started off by talking a little bit about why we visit a temple. God is everywhere, so why is there the need to visit a temple to see Him? Our friend Sahana explains, "We need to go to the temple because we can see God in statue form. You can concentrate on God more because nothing can distract you. It's easier to be in touch with God. Sometimes when you're at home sometimes there's TV or friends to distract you but that's not there at the temple."

The Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple was the first temple we explored. Srihari explains the story behind the deities of the Meenakshi Amman Temple: "The Meenakshi Amman temple was built in the 1300s. There was a King and a Queen and they didn't have any children. They prayed to get a daughter and a girl appeared from the fire of a yagna. The girl already knew how to talk and do other things like a regular three-year-old. She was a warrior and when she grew up she wanted to marry someone who was as strong as her. She went to every Kingdom and every King that wasn't as strong as her, she defeated them. Then she came to Shiva's Kingdom, Kailash, and she couldn't kill Shiva because he was as strong as her, so she married him. She was a warrior that had fish eyes - "meen" means fish and "aksh" means eyes. The Gods in the Meenakshi Amman temple are this Shiva and Meenakshi."

We then took a break for lunch and playtime. Arts and Crafts with Rupal Auntie came next! Our friend, Radhika said "We made envelopes with a Ganesha on it - we made two of them. We made a letter to Swamiji and then to our parents."

We ended our day with closing prayers - we look forward to tomorrow and the rest of the week!

ॐ

Picutres from Camp 2011- Week#1

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CMTCSummerCamp2011_Wk#1

CMTC Summer Camp

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Weekly Schedule:

Week 1 June 20 to June 24
Meenakshi Temple
Brahadeeshwara Temple
Srirangam Temple
Arunachaleswara Temple
Palani Temple

Week 2 June 27 to July 1
Udupi Temple
Mookambika Temple
Sravanabelagola Temple
Halebid Temple
Tirupathi Temple

Simhachala Temple

Week 3 July 5 to July 8
Pandharpur Temple
Tryambakeswar Temple

Ashtavinayak Temples
Shirdi Sai Temple
Guruvayoor Temple

Sabarimala Temple

Week 4 July 11 to July 15
Kamarup Kamkhya Temple
Puri Jagannath Temple
Sun Temple Konark
Golden Temple Amritsar

Week 5 July 18 to July 22 Somnath Temple
Srinath Temple

Dwarka Temple
Ram Janmabhoomi Ayodhya
Krishna Janmabhoomi Mathura
Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Week 6 July 25 to July 29 Bodh Gaya Temple
Kedar Nath
Vaishnodevi Temple
Badrinath Temple
Ujjain Mahakal Temple

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Welcome to Chinmaya Vrindavan - Summer Camp 2011
Temples of India

Click to volunteer.

Click to register.

For more information - please check out the blog:
2011 CMTC summer camp (click here now).

Summer Camp 2011 Dates

Week 1 - June 20 - June 24
Week 2 - June 27 - July 1
Week 3 - July 5 - July 8
(no camp July 4th)
Week 4 - July 11 - July 15
Week 5 - July 18 - July 22
Week 6 - July 25 - July 29

Daily Schedule

9:00 AM - 4:30 PM - Weekdays
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM - EDP available
EDP = Early drop-off and late pick-up.

Weekly Camp Costs

Camp Tuition (all costs per week)
♦ $170 first child per family
♦ $120 each additional sibling

Early Drop-off or Late Pick-up (EDP)
♦ $25 first child per family
♦ $15 each additional sibling

Payments
♦ $25 deposit per week per camper
♦ $20 discount per week per family
(when paid in full by June 5, 2011)

2010-09-17T05:39:00.000-04:00

Thank you for joining us for camp this year. We had a great time — and hope that your kids did, too!

Next year's summer Camp details will be posted sometime in Spring 2011. Please revisit this blog to learn more about the classes we will be offering. On-line registration information can also be found here.

Hope everyone has a great Balavihar year ... and we look forward to meeting you all back at the ashram in June for another summer of fun learning!

Hari OM!

Cultural Summary for Week 3

2010-07-24T11:26:00.001-04:00

Week July 6^th – 9^th

Week of Blistering heat, soaring high temperatures and humidity. Reminds us of our own home towns in India. Our Camp day begins with the melodious and synchronous chanting of the ‘Kanakadhara Stotram’ by Adi Shankaracharya. Though we have new campers joining us every week, the kids quickly join in the rhythm of the chanting. We’re almost half way through the Stotram!

After almost an hour of focusing and following through the Samskritam words in the stotram, our children especially the younger “Keshava group”, can’t wait to get up and jump about. Great timing for some Yoga and Stretching! They eagerly lay down their colorful yoga mats or towels and are ready for their Asanas, almost always beginning with “Surya Namaskaram” and ending with the calming down of ‘Shavasana’. Their favorite parts are the creative games, which utilize Asanas and Poses. Make sure to check out the pictures of the ‘Log and Wave’ game. Our youth volunteers, whom the kids lovingly call ‘bhaiya’ or ‘didi’ take active part and are often the ‘Logs’ that the little campers ‘Wave’ on.

Snack Time!! This week the hungry kids were treated to water melon along with their regular snacks, much needed to cool them down and get hydrated. By this time, the campers know well to wait to chant ‘Brahmarpanam’, before eating, thanking the lord for our food.

Time for the younger “Keshava Group” and older “Balarama Group” to split and go to their respective study rooms. This week’s focus was Uttar Pradesh and the Saints that hail from UP, one of the largest states of India. Chat with your kids about “Ganga”, “Kashi”, and “Sankat Mochan” temple, they witnessed a special presentation from a guest from Varanasi. The children were taken back in time, about 500 years ago, to the times and lives of the great saints of UP, Sant Kabir Das, Sant Tulsi Das and Sant Sur Das. After having listened, sometimes with open mouths, to the miracles and stories about our Saints, they had a ‘Likhita Jhapa”, a quiz , jumble and various other activities.

Morning Session concludes at about 1pm after Lunch.

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Hari Om!

Please click on the links above to view current photographs of the children's activities. (Grades 1-3 are in the Keshava group and grades 4 and up are in the Balarama group.) We try to update our photographs daily —so be sure to check back often!

2010-04-10T11:38:00.000-04:00

Hari Om!

We can hardly believe that Summer is nearly here — boy, the year passed quickly ...

In just a few months, our summer camp will be in full-swing. And, once again we are planning lots of fun, creative activities and learning for your children!

Please continue to visit this blog regularly for details and information. We will be constantly updating it as June approaches. If you are planning to enroll your child this summer, we urge you to subscribe to this blog. You will instantly receive any and all new postings. And, once camp begins we will be using this blog as an on-line journal of the day's activities so you can read up on all the stuff your child is doing throughout the day. Definitely take some time to familiarize yourself with this site and click through the different links.

Camp registration can easily be accessed by clicking on the corresponding link in the upper left side of this page. Also, please note that all of our Class Schedules/Outlines, Medical Release Forms, Camp Guidelines and "Things to Bring" list are also posted here. In short, we are trying to make this blog serve as a "One-Stop Shop" for camp.

We are looking forward to spending a very fun and spiritually enriching summer with your children! Just a few more months to go ...

Coloring and Activity Sheets

2009-09-30T10:06:00.000-04:00

Click here for pages from the Arts and Craft Blog.

These include:
• coloring pages of Gurudev and Guruji
• "Color by number" pages in Sanskrit

Likhita Japa (and Charkha Spinning)

2009-09-30T06:57:00.000-04:00

Summer Camp 2010 (Grades 4 and up)
This week we will introduce the importance of keeping a journal for likhita japa. The children will be encouraged to express their japa in a very personal and creative way, using color and spontaneous writing on the page. The goal is to encourage the child to connect with their mantra while enjoying the process.

For older children (grades 4 and up): Please note that after Week 1 we will continue to set aside the first 30 minutes of every art class (each week) for Likhita Japa or Book Charkha spinning (click here to view info on the charkha.) The child can decide on each day which they prefer to do, but they must choose one!

We will start our Week 1 with a challenge: The children will each be given 3 different colored pens and told to choose only one to begin their writing with. However, once their mind begins to wander from their mantra, they must put that pen down and pick up another color to continue writing with. This process will be repeated until our pre-determined time has ended. Our goal is for each of us to end up with only one color on the page by the end of the week!

To view any of the photographs enlarged, click on the picture.

Photographs are copyrighted. 2010

Color Study

2009-09-30T06:05:00.000-04:00

Summer Camp 2010 (Grades 4 and up)
This week we will be learning about colors and how they communicate with each other. We will begin our lessons by creating a simple color wheel and discussing all of its different components. The children will be exploring color "moods" as well as primary, secondary, tertiary, complimentary and analogous colors. The children (grades 4 and above) will be working with water-soluble color pencils and gouache paints.

Bookbinding

2009-09-30T06:02:00.001-04:00

Summer Camp 2010 (Grades 4 and up)
This week the children will learn about the anatomy of a book and some different structures. We will focus our studio efforts on creating two completely different styles of books: 1) the Japanese accordian and 2) a traditional European Pamphlet Binding with Boards. If time permits, we will will encourage the children to illustrate their pages — either using a favorite quote from Gurudev, likhita japa, or a poem.

Printmaking

2009-09-30T06:02:00.000-04:00

Summer Camp 2010 (Grades 4 and up)

Our project this week is making a Sanskrit Animal Book with a really fun printmaking technique. By using only one oval sized sponge and some tempera paint, the children will create 13 different animal pictures. Once all of the prints have been made (and the details drawn,) the kids will then mount their images into a hand-sewn book, along with writing the name of each animal (in Sanskrit) on each page. By the end of the week each child will have made their very own unique Sanskrit Animal Book — from creating the individual art work to binding the pages!

Thanjavur Art

2009-09-30T06:01:00.000-04:00

Summer Camp 2010
On Weeks 6 and 7 (Jul 26 through August 6) Meena Ajith will be teaching Thanjavur art techniques from the state of Tamil Nadu. This class is being conducted for both age groups. More information will be posted shortly.

Mosaics with Paper

2009-09-30T06:00:00.000-04:00

Summer Camp 2010 (Grades 4 and up)

Now that the children have learned about colors and their "personalities," we will expand our exploration into the world of paper and mosaics. This week the children will start off by designing "color moods" with 1 inch square pieces of decorative paper — using their experience with color theory from the week prior. If time permits, we will end this art session by making a rangoli pattern.

Answers from God...

2009-08-30T15:00:00.000-04:00

We had written a letter to God on the Chinmaya Kids Website the week before our camp ended -- our response just arrived this morning (August 30.) Make sure to check out the Website for lots of fun activities and learning!

On 8/10/2009 8:28:20 PM, Jacqueline wrote:
Dear God,

We are writing to you from our Chinmaya Mission Summer Camp in New Jersey. We are writing to you because we have some questions. We would be very grateful if you could answer them for us.

1. Why do you make people do good deeds and bad deeds?
2. Why do all the Gods have 108 names? What is the significance of 108?
3. Are you really just one God in many forms or are you many Gods?
4. How did you create people?
5. How does reincarnation work?
6. Do you have just one name?

We know that these are a lot of questions, but we would really love to hear your thoughts and answers.

With greatest love, the campers in NJ.

God's Reply

Dearest Jacqueline and all Campers,
Great questions! I will answer them one by one.

I give everyone opportunities or experiences. How people act and react to such situations is up to them. The person who has done good in the past most likely will continue to do good. And the same applies to doing bad. To change from the bad to good or good to bad is a choice which a person makes. So I provide them with the field, they are the deciders of what they do with the field.

All Gods have 108 names so that people remember them more enthusiastically. If God only had 1 name, people would get bored. So God has lots and lots of names to keep people interested and because God is everything! So 108 is just a sample of Gods names!

And 108 is a number which signifies victory. And it is divisible by 18 which is a very significant number in Hinduism (i.e. 18 Chapters of Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, 18 Puranas, etc.).

I am only One with many forms for people to remember me by. Just like cotton is one but it can be weaved into a shirt or pants or hats or gloves based on what appeals to someone. I create people from the same materials as I create all (space, air, fire, water, earth).

The whole universe is made up of the same materials, only with different forms and names. Really though all are just these 5 elements and all of these elements are just Me! When I created the Universe there was only Me and so I created the Universe with Me. So I am the Universe.

With Reincarnation only the physical body made up of the above elements dies. Nothing else. And the mind/intellect/ego goes to another physical body to pick up where it left off. The Spirit which allows all to take place (life and death) is unaffected by the death or birth of the body. It remains the same. It is like how you wear clothes, you use them for the day and then the next day change your clothes because you have made use of the previous days clothes and need new ones for the day upcoming.

All names are mine. You can call my book or computer or Lord Rama. Whatever name is fine because I am all with just a special form and name. As long as you remember I am the essence of all, you can call Me by the name you love the most.

I hope that these answers help you with all your questions. Keep remembering Me!

Love,

God

Kanagadhara Stothram

2009-08-30T08:39:00.000-04:00

Click here to listen to the children chanting

August 14, 2009

2009-08-14T19:34:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting:

• Praarthanaa (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 3)
• Gayanti Mantra (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 5)
• Medha Sukhtam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)
• Mantra Pushpam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 170)

Bhajans: Sri Krishna, Govinda Radhe, Swami Chinmayananda

Storytime: Today we blissed out on Vishnu Puran episodes! We started out having some technical difficulties, but after we took a break for lunch, we went back and troubleshot some wires with the projector and got back in business. Swamiji agreed to come back in the afternoon and show us some more videos. We started our viewing with Sage Parashurama coming to Mithila angrily demanding to know who was responsible for breaking his deity's bow. Lord Ram stepped forward, and there was some intense dialogue between the two which ended with Sage Parashurama having a change of heart and acknowledging that he was indeed in the presence of Lord Vishnu -- and that he now understood the purpose of Lord Ram breaking the bow. He (Parashurama) was a brahmin who has been living as a kshatriya ... and he can now dedicate himself to brahmin activities.

Art Projects: None.

Shaanti Circle Discussion:

We used pretty much all of our Circle Discussion time in watching Vishnu Puran episodes.

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: August 14 Photos (click here to view.)

Comments: It's a sad realization that this is our last blog post of the summer. This auntie is not quite sure how she's going to fare Monday morning ...

There was a lot of excitement and energy bouncing around the ashram all day. Swamiji treated all the campers to a yummy pizza lunch with cupcakes for dessert. A couple of the aunties and didis spent last evening baking -- and made the butter icing (real butter icing!) this morning. Everything was absolutely delicious and fresh. We definitely were feeling a bit overstuffed as lunch came to and end.

At 3:30 this afternoon, we were reunited with some campers from earlier in the summer. We asked that everyone get together today for a little recognition ceremony. After the children sang the bhajans that Sheila Auntie taught us, they very nicely performed all the three vedic chants they have been learning with Swamiji. It was fantastic to hear all these children chant together. Afterwards, Swamiji reminded us when each vedic chant is to be chanted. We should chant Medha Suktam every morning before going to school. This will give us perfect and photographic memory. Na Karmanaa is chanted when we are receiving and greeting a swami. Mantra Pushpam is chanted at the end of pujas. Swamiji suggested that we can now chant with the pandits in the temple :-)

After our chanting, Swamiji handed out certificates to all the children congratulating them on performing all of their activities and disciplines over the summer. Everyone then high-tailed it to the porch for our end-of-the summer photo shoot. (Be sure and check out the photos in the gallery.)

We hope that your children had as much fun as the aunties did. We feel grateful and blessed to have had this opportunity to learn and work with the kids ... there wasn't a day that passed when we ALL didn't learn something! Kids: please continue to do your vedic chanting and shlokas on a daily basis. You really did a super job this summer -- and we couldn't be more proud of you!! We are going to miss you ... Don't forget: if you see us in the Balavihar hallways, make sure to give us a big "Hari OM" and high five!

See you in the fall!

August 13, 2009

2009-08-13T21:50:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting:

• Praarthanaa (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 3)
• Gayanti Mantra (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 5)
• Medha Sukhtam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)
• Mantra Pushpam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 170)

Bhajans: Sri Krishna, Govinda Radhe

Storytime: Because of time constraints, we only got to watch 2 episodes of the Vishnu Puran today. We were hoping for a third ... but couldn't happen. Swamiji promised us at least 3 tomorrow! Our episodes today were with Mother Sita's swayamvar. In the first episode, Sage Vishwamitra asks Lord Ram and Lakshmanji to go to the garden to pick some flowers for his yagna. While picking flowers, Lord Ram and Mother Sita see each other -- and get locked in a trance. (Some of the campers thought it went on a little too long, but the aunties thought it was extremely poetic and beautiful!) In the second episode we are taken to Mother Sita's swayamvar -- and who should force his way in with tremendous arrogance? Nobody else but the egoistic Ravan! He thunders to King Janak that if anyone is able to pick up the bow, it is he. Of course he tries, and fails miserably. With his ego shattered, he announces to King Janak that Mother Sita is bound to be a spinster -- for if he, the mightly Ravan, cannot lift the bow, then no one can. After everyone tries (and fails), King Janak begins to worry that perhaps his daughter will remain single. Sage Vishwamitra, moved by the King's anguish, instructs Lord Ram to pick up the bow. Our episode ended here ... we can't wait to see what happens tomorrow!

Art Projects: Made friendship bracelets and finished other projects.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: A big round of applause for our older campers -- they successfully sat quietly (without any movement, eyes closed) for six whole minutes! They admitted that it is starting to get a little difficult, but are wanting to move on to 7 minutes. We are certain that these kids can do it -- they are determined! The younger children did very well with 3 minutes today. They will continue to do 3 tomorrow. For those younger ones who are interested, they can try and sit still with the "big guys." :-)

During our question and answer segment with Swamiji, the kids posed some very good questions. Someone asked "Why did Lord Krishna steal butter? Isn't stealing wrong?" Swamiji explained that Lord Krishna never really stole ... because everything already belongs to Him. This question led Swamiji to explain that the butter represents "tapas." He talked about all the hard work that is involved in making butter ... milking the cow, churning the milk, etc. And when we hear the stories of him stealing butter, this is really symbolic of us giving over to him all of our punyas and papas.

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: August 13 Photos (click here to view.)

Comments: So sorry that we are posting this entry late in the evening ... we were at the Sri Krishna Janmasthami celebrations (at the Ashram). The festivities were wonderful, and seeing Lord Krishna sitting in the cradle was beautiful beyond words ...

Anyway, we had a fun day today! The question that a camper asked about "Lord Krishna stealing butter" ended up giving us a full day activity. After our discussion with Swamji, we decided to make butter in celebration of Lord Krishna's birthday. All the kids were given a plastic bag with some marbles and cream. We then sent them outside to shake up a storm. And the kids did! You can see them shake, shake, shaking in the photos. After the cream turned to creamy butter, we all sat down and tasted it with some crackers. We thought the kids would only be interested in sampling their hard work, but instead, it turned out to be a butter feast.

For the campers who have finished their art projects and didn't want to start anything new, we put on the original Disney animation of "Pinnochio." Some of us haven't seen it in years -- and it brought back wonderful memories. Surprisingly, many of the campers have never seen it at all ...

Tomorrow is our last day of summer camp -- and it's very hard to believe that 8 weeks have flown by so quickly. The aunties have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to spend this valuable time with your children -- and we feel incredibly blessed to watch them grow over these past few months. The campers have done so very well with their Vedic Chanting, Shlokas, Yoga, and Creative work ... we are extremely proud of them. And we know that you must be, also!

We look forward to seeing all of you at the ceremony tomorrow afternoon (3:30 p.m.)!

August 12, 2009

2009-08-12T18:29:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting:

• Praarthanaa (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 3)
• Gayanti Mantra (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 5)
• Medha Sukhtam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)
• Mantra Pushpam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 170)

Bhajans: Sri Krishna, Swami Chinmayananda, Lay Your Burden Down, Govinda Radhe (with Sheila Auntie)

Storytime: Things are heating up in the Vishnu Puran! Swamiji treated us to another three episodes with Lord Ram. In the first show we watched, Lord Ram and Lakshmanji took on the demons who were upsetting Sage Vishwamitra's yagnas ... Taadika was slayed by Lord Ram, Shubayu was killed and Maarich was sent back to Lanka to tell Ravana the news. In the second episode Sage Vishwamitra takes Lord Ram to the ashram where Sage Gautam and Ahilya lived. Lord Ram hears someone calling out his name and asks his Guru where the voice is coming from. Then, Guru Vishwamitra takes Lord Ram to a stone and tells him that he must place his feet on it, thus freeing Ahilya. In the third episode, we saw Mother Sita's father send out the invitations for her swayamvar. He reflects on the time that he walked in and saw Mother Sita (as a young girl) pick up the bow as she lovingly dusted it with her sari -- the very bow which 10 or 15 strong men had a hard time lifting! It was at this moment that he realized that her husband should be able to lift the very same bow with such ease and care. We're guessing that Lord Ram's and Sita's wedding will be in one of tomorrow's episodes ...

Art Projects: Made friendship bracelets.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: The older children did exceptionally well with their 5 minutes of stillness! Tomorrow they will try for 6 minutes. The younger kids will try three minutes again.

Nobody had any pressing questions for Swamiji today after our Vedic Chanting. So, in celebration of Sri Krishna Janmasthami, he shared the story of Lord Krishna's birth ... why he was raised by parents who were not his birth parents ... and how we celebrate this glorious occasion.

We've deemed this last week of camp our "Movie Week." The movie of the day was Disney's "101 Dalmations (the original animation.)

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: Forgot the camera, sorry.

Comments: Boy, is it getting hard to accept that this is our final week of camp ... just two more days and our focus will be turning towards getting ready for school and Balavihar. We've had such a wonderful time with all the children -- it's not going to be easy to say farewell on Friday

You have all probably gotten the email by now, announcing the graduation get together we are having for all the campers that have joined over this summer. Please come to the ashram at 3:30 for the festivities. We plan to begin on time -- and end on time. It will be great to see everyone again!

It was really great to see Sheila Auntie today. We had a wonderful bhajan session with her and will sorely miss these fun get togethers. Hopefully, she will schedule us in again next year! We got her permission to post the lyrics to these beautiful songs that she has been teaching us. They will be in the blog tomorrow -- that way your children can always have access to these songs -- and they can teach you!

Another reminder: pizza and vegan cupcakes will be provided for Friday's lunch. Don't send any food in with your children on that day! We really look forward to seeing everyone for the ceremony, starting at 3:30! Parents: if you plan to bring in food on Friday, please make sure that it is 100% vegetarian (no eggs.) Many thanks.

August 11, 2009

2009-08-11T10:15:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting:

• Praarthanaa (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 3)
• Gayanti Mantra (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 5)
• Medha Sukhtam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)
• Mantra Pushpam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 170)

Bhajans:

Storytime: We watched another three episodes of Vishnu Puran this morning -- lucky us!! In the first episode we saw, Lord Rama was asked by his Guru (on the occasion of Guru Poornima) "What is the significance of a Guru? Why does one need a Guru in his life?" Lord Ram's answer was extremely beautiful and poetic. He and his brothers then left the Ashram to return to the Palace in Ayodhya. In the second episode we saw King Dashrath and the three Queens' excitement of Lord Ram's return. We also got another glimpse of Mathira's jealousy. In the third episode, Sage Vishwamitra came to Ayodhya and asked King Dashrath's permission to take Lord Ram on a mission to the forest to kill the demons who have been polluting the yagnas. The show ended with the Sage telling King Dashrath that his attachment to his son was against the Sun Dynasty's legend ... and then the King granted permission to take Lord Ram on this mission.

Art Projects: Made puppet heads out of clay, friendship bracelets, bead looms.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: Our four minutes of silence went extremely well today! We have decided to move on to 5 minutes tomorrow. We noticed, however, that the younger group of children started to become a little restless after three minutes -- so we decided to break our concentration game up into two sections: the older kids will work towards 5 minutes, while the younger kids will work towards 3 minutes. We are very proud of our campers, indeed!!

After Vedic Chanting, Swamiji answered some really good questions for us. One of our campers asked "Why does Lord Krishna always play the flute?" Swamiji explained that the flute represents our body. There are seven holes in the flute, just like our body has seven holes. In order for sweet music to be played, the flute must be hollow -- just like our mind must be hollow from ego so that he can play through us. Other questions that were asked: "How do we know when it is Lord Krishna's birthday?", "Why do we always light a candle or lamp on the altar?", Is there one God in many forms or are there many Gods?" This questions and answer segment is one of our favorite times of the day!

During our afternoon session, we pulled some videos down from the blog to watch. In addition to our favorite "Chanda Mama," we viewed Dr. Seuss' "Butter Battle Book." After our videos, we spent some time in our Shaanti Circle discussing what the movie was all about, and what exactly was Dr. Seuss trying to say. We all agreed that whether we butter our bread on the top -- or the bottom -- doesn't matter! This is such a great animation to spark discussion among the youth on issues of war (between nations), or war with one's neighbor. Definitely check it out if you haven't seen the film! You can click on all the titles below to see what we viewed today.

The Butter Battle Book (Part 1)
The Butter Battle Book (Part 2)
The Butter Battle Book (Part 3)

Star Wars clip (in Sanskrit)
Chanda Mama
War/No More Trouble
Rameshawaran
Mathur Hanging Bridge

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: August 11 Photos (click here to view)

Comments: It's hard to believe that our summer camp is coming to a close ... this is our final week. We are sad that all of our fun and learning must come to a halt. We are looking forward to seeing all of our campers in Balavihar this fall, however!!!

At this point everyone is trying to finish up their projects ... puppet making, friendship bracelets, beading looms before all the supplies get stored away for next year. Friday is our party day, so parents do beware that lots of food is going to be provided. Lunch is on the ashram -- pizza and yummy vegan cupcakes (with butter icing -- just like Lord Krishna would like!!) We plan to have a graduation ceremony late in the afternoon -- hopefully, with all of our camper friends from the summer. More details will be provided tomorrow ... so stay tuned.

In the meantime, remember not to send a lunch with your kids on Friday!

Okay kids, the aunties aren't going to forget -- for our cinema afternoon showing this week we've got Wednesday: "Disney's 101 Dalmations (the original)" for our cinema afternoon; Thursday is "The Bee" and Friday is "Ratatoulie" (sp?).

August 10, 2009

2009-08-10T18:42:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting:

• Praarthanaa (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 3)
• Gayanti Mantra (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 5)
• Medha Sukhtam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)
• Mantra Pushpam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 170)

Bhajans:

Storytime: We received an extra treat with Swamiji today -- 3 episodes of Vishnu Puran!! One of them was when Lord Ram and his brothers first arrived at their Guru Vasistha's ashram for education. It was in this show that Guru Vasistha proved Lord Rama's archery "miracle" to King Dashrath by blindfolding Lord Rama and asking him to shoot his bow and arrow -- while holding a branch as a target! Another episode was where Mother Sita, as a young princess, rejects Sage Gautam as her Guru for having cursed his chaste and loyal wife. And we ended with the episode where Ravana killed King Vidyut (of the Netherlands), leaving Ravana's sister a widow. We certainly had a lot to digest today -- and eagerly look forward to more episodes tomorrow!

Art Projects: Made puppet heads out of clay.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: We started our week with 4 minutes of silence after our morning prayers. Even though there was a little restlessness, it was certainly a whole lot better than on Friday. We think it's because we shut the doors when we started our concentration segment -- all latecomers stayed outside until we were finished. We will attempt 4 minutes again tomorrow. There was a little too much body movement, so we reviewed our criteria for "successful silence" (which is sitting absolutely still, hands on our knees, and no head or body movement whatsoever.) This is certainly not easy ... not even for some adults :-)

After our Vedic Chanting segment with Swamiji, everyone stayed seated to ask more questions. One child wanted to know why Kartikeya had 6 heads. Some of our campers were not familiar with the stories of Lord Shiva, so he explained that Kartikeya was one of Lord Shiva's sons, and also shared some of the other names that Kartikeya is known by.

During our afternoon session, we gathered in the air-conditioned room, turned out the lights, and watched "The Zax" and "The Lorax" by Dr. Seuss. We felt that "The Lorax" was right in line with some of our discussions last week about the Chipko Movement and the Bishnoi people of Rajasthan. This movie really reinforced the joy we felt in our tree planting activities. Hopefully, we will be getting some sprouts soon! You can click on the titles below to view the videos we watched.

The Lorax (Part 1)
The Lorax (Part 2)
The Lorax (Part 3)

The Zax

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: August 10 Photos (click here to view)

Comments: It was a scorcher of a day!! We mananged to stay cool indoors, doing our art projects and watching Vishnu Puran episodes and some fun Dr. Seuss animations.

After our evening prayers a group of us got together to write our letter to God on the Chinmaya Kids website. We sent a letter from the campers asking the six following questions: 1)Why do you make people do good deeds and bad deeds? 2) What is the significance of 108? Why do all the Gods/Goddesses have 108 names? 3) Are you one God taking shape in many Gods forms or are you many Gods? 4) How does reincarnation work? 5) How did you make people? 6) Do you have just one name? Now, we realize that these are a lot of questions (and probably volumes are written on any one question) -- but we will be thrilled to just receive an email saying that God received our questions! We have all been checking out the Chinmaya Kids website over the past few days, and love everything that we see there. Do explore, if you haven't already.

Parents: Quick reminder about Thursday, August 13. Sri Krishna Janmasthami celebrations will be starting at 6:00 p.m. at the ashram. Please do join in the festivities! Also, we ask that all the children be picked up from camp no later than 4:30 p.m., so that all the decorations, etc. can be completed on time. Many thanks in advance!!

August 7, 2009

2009-08-07T18:46:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting:

• Praarthanaa (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 3)
• Gayanti Mantra (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 5)
• Medha Sukhtam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)
• Mantra Pushpam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 170)

Bhajans:

Storytime: We watched Vishnu Puran with Swamiji today. Today we saw the episode where the rshis came to receive darshaan of Lord Ram after his birth. We ended the viewing with Ravana fighting Lord Indra on the battlefield.

Art Projects: Bead looms and friendship bracelets

Shaanti Circle Discussion: After our morning prayers, we successfully sat (quietly) for 5 minutes, with an accurate pebble count! We did notice, however, that there was a bit of restlessness with some of our campers. More than a few of kids said that it was because of latecomers rustling about. We have all agreed that on Monday morning we will close the doors when we begin our "quiet" segment. So, for all those who arrive to camp and see the doors shut, please do not open them. We will open them when we are finished with the segment.

We were very blessed to have another question and answer period with Swamiji today. Today one of our campers asked why Lord Shiva wears a snake around his neck. Swamiji explained that the snake has poison (fangs) and in order to wear it as an ornament, the poison must be removed. The snake's poison also represents "ego." Therefore, Lord Shiva wears a snake whose poison has been removed (symbolizing a tamed, or removed, ego.) Some of the other questions that were asked are: "Why do all Swamis wear orange?" "What does OM mean?" We really treasure this time with Swamiji!

During our afternoon discussion time all agreed that we were going to write God a letter (on the Chinmaya Kids website.) We were all ready to write the letter, but then realised that we needed to register first. One of the aunties will register herself this weekend, so we can post our letter next week. Lots of the kids said they went exploring the site and liked it!

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: August 7 Photos (click here to view)

Comments: It was another great day as far as the weather goes. We let the kids go outside and shoot some basketball after our morning disciplines. (Yes parents, they put on sunblock :-)

Today was the day for great food treats. First, we would like to thank Vishal Anand (Maya and Marisha's dad) for a great taco luncheon. The kids ate ... and ate ... and ate ... the aunties were joking about their appetities kinda being like Kumbhakarna's :-) And, if that was not enough, Ashvith's mom brought in a tasty ice cream cake and cookies to celebrate his birthday with. Ashvith turned six today -- and we are so happy that he wanted to spend this day with us. Happy Birthday Ashvith!

While we were waiting for Ashvith's mom, we decided to put on the projector and watch Chanda Mama -- Folk Song from Chennai again (and again.) The kids couldn't stop themselves from getting up to dance! It's rapidly becoming one of our favorites, and we're trying to learn the words to it. A camp volunteer (who speaks Telegu) is going to try and get the words written down for us so we can post it for everyone.

August 6, 2009

2009-08-06T18:41:00.001-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting:

• Praarthanaa (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 3)
• Gayanti Mantra (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 5)
• Medha Sukhtam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)
• Mantra Pushpam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 170)

Bhajans:

Storytime: We watched Vishnu Puran with Swamiji today. Lord Ram was born in this show. The children begged to watch the next episode, but we convinced them that they had to eat lunch and we will pick up the story again tomorrow :-)

Art Projects: Everyone worked on their bead looms, friendship bracelets and lego building.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: We attempted six minutes of silence after our morning prayers. The kids made a valiant effort, but we decided that we needed to work with five minutes a little longer. The leap from five to six minutes is definitely a big one. We are indeed very proud of the campers this week -- they are the winning group of the whole summer -- thus far! Good going kids!!!

After our Vedic Chanting with Swamiji, there was a question and answer period. One of our campers had asked the aunties a question yesterday about why Lord Shiva is represented in a human form in some temples, and as a Shiva Lingam in other temples. What is the difference? An absolutely fantastic question! Swamiji explained to us that Lord Shiva represented as a human form is the image we meditate and contemplate upon. And when we perform worship (puja) it is done with Shiva Lingam. The Lingam represents Lord Shiva as "One without form." He also went on to explain that the top of the Lingam is Lord Shiva. The sides are Lord Vishnu and the base is Lord Brahma. Swamiji also answered other questions like "how do we know that the Gods and Goddesses like certain colors?" It was very interesting session -- and we look forward to more question and answer time with Swamiji. Good questions, kids -- the aunties learned a lot!

During our afternoon discussion time we showed some videos and animations. Please click on the titles below to view the videos.

Chanda Mama -- Folk Song from Chennai (music video with artists from all over the world)
One Love (music video with artists from all over the world)
Pot of Gold (animation)
Farmer and the Goat (animation)
Kiwi
Tirupati
Nalanda University

Before showing the videos, we spent a few minutes touring the Summer Camp blog and showed the children where to find the videos, etc. We also shared with them the "Chinmaya Kids" website (located in the announcement section of this blog.) Their homework assignment is to explore the Chinmaya Kids website and share what they learned in Circle Time tomorrow.

After the videos, we spent some time talking about our thoughts on of what we watched. A lot of the kids wanted to comment on "The Farmer and the Goat." We all agreed that it was a fabulous animation -- which made us proud to be vegetarians. And to think that this film was made without any words whatsoever! The Music videos were a big hit, also. We were pretty amazed that these songs were recorded by musicians from all over the world (who have never even met one another) -- an inspiring message of different cultures being united through the power and beauty of music!

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: Forgot the camera today -- sorry.

Comments: We were truly blessed with some lovely weather today. After our morning activities, we hit the outdoors for some good old fashioned play. We have been stuck indoors for the past week, so this was a real breath of fresh air for us.

Parents: just a quick reminder about our quesadilla party tomorrow. Please don't send in lunch with your child (unless they don't eat quesadillas.) A healthy mid-morning snack is all they will need. Ashvith's mother will be celebrating his birthday with an ice-cream cake in the afternoon. So, the kids will be well-fed tomorrow.

August 5, 2009

2009-08-05T18:49:00.000-04:00

August 4, 2009

2009-08-04T20:28:00.000-04:00

August 3, 2009

2009-08-03T18:31:00.000-04:00

Subha Srinivasan with Children (2010)

2009-08-01T09:42:00.001-04:00

Click here to view photograph

August 11, 2010 Photo Album

2009-08-01T09:42:00.000-04:00

Click here to view

August 9, 2010 Photo Album

2009-08-01T09:41:00.000-04:00

Click here to view

August 6, 2010 Photo Album

2009-08-01T09:40:00.000-04:00

Click here to view

Photo Gallery (2010)

2009-08-01T09:36:00.000-04:00

Morning Session (All grades)
July 19 – 23
click here to view photos

June 28 – July 2
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June 21 – June 25
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Afternoon Art Class (Keshava, grades 1 – 3)
July 6 – July 9
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June 28 – July 2
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Afternoon Art Class (Balarama, grades 4 and up)
July 19 – July 23
Friday click here to view photos
Thursday click here to view photos
Wednesday click here to view photos
Tuesday click here to view photos
Monday click here to view photos

July 12 – July 16
Friday click here to view photos
Thursday click here to view photos
Tuesday click here to view photos

Monday click here to view photos

July 6 – July 9
Friday click here to view photos
Thursday click here to view photos
Wednesday click here to view photos

June 28 – July 2
Friday click here to view photos
Thursday click here to view photos
Wednesday click here to view photos
Tuesday click here to view photos
Monday click here to view photos

June 21 – June 25
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July 31, 2009

2009-07-31T19:27:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting:

• Praarthanaa (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 3)
• Medha Sukhtam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)
• Gayatri Mantra (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 5)
• Mantra Pushpam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 170)

Bhajans:

Storytime with Swamiji:

Art Projects: Painted and decorated our Pooja Thalis. Click on our Photo Gallery to view the pics.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: The campers did it -- a tie with Week 5 for the longest period of silence and an accurate pebble count. In fact, we think that the kids today did an outstanding job during our time of silence. Usually there are some children who become a bit restless after a couple of minutes. But, today we asked them to pretend to be a Barn Owl. If they must open their eyes after two minutes, then they must sit still -- not move an inch ... they can only move their eyes and quietly watch. Well, it worked! So, even though they tied with Week 5 regarding the time, the aunties think Week 6 campers are ahead!

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: July 31 (click here to view)

Comments: Today we were a little sluggish with our Vedic Chanting, although all the children chanted well with Nirmala Auntie. Clearly the humid weather was effecting our ability to chant with gusto:-) Regardless, Auntie congratulated the children on a job well done -- and well deserved, we might add. They sat for an entire half hour completing our four vedic chants.

After our morning disciplines, we brought out the paints, brushes, glitter glue, gems and sequins and got started on decorating our pooja thalis. They really turned out beautifully -- each one is so unique. Definitely check the photo gallery (or the slideshow above) to see the kids' work.

This afternoon we promised the children another fun movie in our make-shift cinema (complete with popcorn and chips). Today we watched a short film clip on the Kanho National Park (click here to view), which is where Rudyard Kipling got inspired for Jungle Book. Then we popped in the Disney Classic and enjoyed some good music, and fun times -- boy, they sure don't make animation the way they used to! After the movie we spent a few minutes talking about how many artists were needed to draw, paint and animate this movie ... and the fact that they didn't have computers then. Now that is a concept our young campers had to get their head around :-)

For all of our friends who will not be with us next week, we are really going to miss you. We had such a nice time together this week. Some of you will be traveling to India -- we hope you have a super time and bring back lots of pictures to share with us in the Fall. We look forward to seeing you in Balavihar in September -- and expect a super loud "Hari OM" when we see you in the hallways.

For everyone else who will be joining us next week -- don't forget your "messy art" clothes. We will be working with clay -- and it will definitely find its way on your clothes :-)

p.s. Rishab, I didn't forget about posting the patterns for the Lord Ganesha bead pattern. I left the pattern in the ashram and will try to pick it up this weekend ... I know you're feeling rather skeptical right now -- but I will get them to you -- don't fret!

Have a great weekend! See you all on Monday.

July 30, 2009

2009-07-30T19:40:00.000-04:00

July 29, 2009

2009-07-29T18:28:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting:

• Praarthanaa (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 3)
• Medha Sukhtam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)
• Gayatri Mantra (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 5)
• Mantra Pushpam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 170)

Bhajans:

Storytime with Swamiji: We watched an episode of the Vishnu Puran -- where Narada curses Lord Vishnu for having turned him into a monkey, after he asked to be turned into a most handsome man so that he could win the marriage of Vishwamohini, the daughter of King Shilanidhi. This is the beginning of Lord Rama.

Art Projects: We started pasting our pooja thalis. If all dries well, we will begin our painting and decorating in two days.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: We tried really hard to accomplish 5 minutes of absolute stillness and an accurate pebble count this morning. But we were a little too restless -- perhaps because of the weather. Regardless, we didn't quite make it. We are going to go back to 4 minutes tomorrow and and if remain disciplined and focused then we will be able to tie with last week's 5 minutes! Wish us luck ...

We began a watching a really good documentary which was originally aired on the BBC. It is called "What the Ancients Did For us." This documentary is all about the fantastic inventions and discoveries that Ancient India is responsible for. In the first three segments, which we saw today, we learned about the very cool Water Clock, the very sophisticated sewage system that was created by the Harrapan people in Dholavira, and about the discovery and importance of the number "0." We will continue watching the next three segments either tomorrow or Friday. You may click below to view the segments:

Part 1/6 (click to view)
Part 2/6 (click to view)
Part 3/6 (click to view)

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: July 29 (click here to view)

Comments: Today Nirmala Auntie taught us the next two paragraphs of the Mantra Pushpam. So, at this pace, we will learn the entire vedic chant by Friday! She is extremely thorough with us and is patiently working with our intonation and pronounciation. Thank you, Auntie.

We were happy to have Sheila Auntie back with us this afternoon. It's always a good feeling to see her get out of the car with her guitar in hand ... we are learning really fun and beautiful bhajans from her. (Some of the children have been heard singing these bhajans while they play during EDP time ... and they don't even realize they're singing -- and we're listening :-) We look forward to seeing Sheila Auntie again next Wednesday.

Most of the children have completed papier macheing their thalis. Now all we have to do is wait for everything to dry -- which may take a little extra time with such high humidity these past few days. If the thalis are still damp tomorrow, and the children complete all their morning disciplines with tremendous gusto and enthusiasm, we promised them an afternoon movie theatre showing of Wall-E. The Aunties will be popping lots of popcorn tonight in preparation for this treat ;-) For the children who would rather do their beadwork, reading, board games or spinning, we will have another space set up for them to work in -- complete with air-conditioning and snacks.

Rest well, kids. We've got lots of work ahead of us in the morning ...

July 28, 2009

2009-07-28T18:26:00.000-04:00

July 27, 2009

2009-07-27T18:53:00.000-04:00

July 24, 2009

2009-07-24T20:22:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting:

• Praarthanaa (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 3)
• Medha Sukhtam (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)
• Gayatri Mantra (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 5)

Bhajans:

Storytime with Swamiji: We continued watching the video on Vamana. Monday we will begin the avatara, Lord Ram.

Art Projects: Bead Weaving Techniques -- on-loom and off-loom.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: Well, the kids did it! 5 Minutes of complete silence with an accurate pebble count. Boy, are we proud of them! Five minutes is not easy, even for some adults :-)

For our afternoon circle discussion, we viewed two videos on Gurudev. One was of him (at different periods of time) with Balavihar children, walking with the Dalai Lama, Dancing with youth, etc. (click here to view.) The other was a fim montage of Gurudev in his later years (click here to view.) One of the children asked what "Gurudev" means, and we talked about the meaning of Guru and deva. We also talked about Gurudev's MahaSamadhi which is August 3, 1993.

A few of the aunties made a big chart of the days of the week for us to hang up (Monday through Friday.) Then, they wrote in the day which God or Goddess is especially worshipped on -- i.e., Sunday is Lord Surya, Monday is Lord Shiva, Tuesday is Lord Hanuman/Lord Ganesha, Wednesday is Lord Vishnu, Thursday is Guru, Friday is Devi, Saturday is Lord Ganesha. They also wrote the days of the week and the God/Goddesses' names in their favorite colors. Hanumanji is orange, Lord Vishnu is Blue, Devi is Red/Green/White, etc. A few of the children asked how we knew that these colors were favored by the Gods, and we had to admit that this was an excellent question -- and we will wait for Swamiji to return from his travel so we can ask him!! :-) The aunties did not have all the answers ... :-)

During our "end of the day" Circle Time, Uncle shared some very interesting and cool thoughts that he had about Mahatma Gandhi and Prahlada. We also talked more on the significance of the charkha and what it represented in the fight for India's Independence from the British.

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: July 24 (click here to view)

Comments: We really missed Swamiji today. Camp was not the same without him, especially during our vedic chanting class and storytime. Nevertheless, we chanted all 3 of the vedic chants we have been learning over the summer, with complete gusto. First, we listened to the recording we had of Panditji chanting, and then tried our best to parrot exactly what we heard. Guess we'll find out how well we did on Monday :-)

Because nearly all of our campers stand in front of the movie projector when we gather for movie time, we decided to share some puppet theater film clips with all the kids today -- if only to encourage them to be a little more creative with their shadow puppets ;-) The dance group is called Pilobolus and you can click here to view this really fantastic choreography! We also re-showed Wonderful World Shadow Puppet by Raymond Crowe (click here to view.)

Our caterpillars are now in the chrysallis stage. These little friends are in the process of transforming ... and we are looking forward to setting them free in another week or so.

The kids now lead the aunties in prayers. No longer do they repeat after us ... we repeat after them!

July 23, 2009

2009-07-23T18:51:00.000-04:00

July 22, 2009

2009-07-22T19:01:00.000-04:00

July 21, 2009

2009-07-21T19:11:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting:

• Praarthanaa with Panditji. (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 3)
• Medha Sukhtam with Panditji. (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)

Bhajans: Ganesha Sharanam, Subramanyan, Anjaneya Raghuveera and Raghupati Raghava

Storytime with Swamiji: Swamiji continued showing a video on Druv.

Art Projects: Continued sewing our animals in felt, Lord Ganesha out of Modeling Clay, and more beaded Lord Ganesha's for the backpacks.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: We successfully completed 3 minutes of silence and focus after our prayers this morning -- nicely done everyone! We're going to try four minutes tomorrow ...

Our Vedic Chanting class was moved to a different time slot today, so after our prayers and concentration game, we continued to stay in circle to practice our cotton spinning on the takhlis. We spent about 30-40 minutes learning how to gently open the fibers in a pooni (tightly rolled cotton), and how to keep our takhlis spinning for a good amount of time. We talked a little about the reason for needing a fast spin when making cotton thread, and exactly what are the steps in making a nice, strong yarn.

In our afternoon circle time, we watched a wonderful film clip of Gurudev. This was filmed while he was talking to some Balavihar children in the States (most likely California.) Most of us have only seen pictures of him in books and on our altars, and very few have seen or heard him in videos or audio. This particular film clip is of Gurudev singing a bhajan with the children and then telling a story of a yogi who saves a mouse. (We have the fable, illustrated by Marcia Brown, in our camp library -- so it was a double treat for us hearing Gurudev tell this tale!) His energy and connection with the children is inspiring beyond words. We will definitely be showing this film again ... and again ... and again ...

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: July 21 (click here to view)

Comments: Our caterpillars did not arrive today. Hopefully, they will come tomorrow. We're expecting rain throughout the week, so helping our little friends into their containers will be a welcome in-door activity.

Panditji was pleased with our Medha Suktam chanting today -- and boy, did that make us happy! We definitely need to practice Praatharnaa more, however. Swamiji lent us a recorder and we asked Panditji if he would record the entire chant for us. We will be playing it on our music system throughout the day so we can familiarize ourselves with the pronounciation and intonation. We will be missing Panditji for the next two days -- so, this will be an excellent way for us to continue practicing with him while he is away.

We brought the Lego Table back out today. Our youngest campers have done very well with exploring some of the other camp activities for the past 4 or 5 days. We are especially proud of their enthusiasm and determination to learn takhli spinning. We've seen them sneak off to a corner to practice spinning on their own! Tomorrow afternoon, during Shaanti Circle, will be show the children film clips of school children spinning, Mahatma Gandhi spinning, as well as the very significant Dandi March. All of the new clips are posted in our Shaanti Circle Discussion. (You can click here for the listing.)

July 20, 2009

2009-07-20T18:58:00.000-04:00

July 17, 2009

2009-07-17T19:09:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting:

• Praarthanaa with Panditji. (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 3)
• Medha Sukhtam with Panditji. (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)

Bhajans: Ganesha Sharanam

Storytime with Swamiji: Swamiji showed a video on Druv.

Art Projects: Cotton Spinning, Cross Stitching, Clay Modelling

Shaanti Circle Discussion: We decided to increase our concentration game to 5 minutes this morning. Everyone really wanted to give it a try -- so we did. We almost made it, but that extra minute was pretty difficult. Most of us got the pebble count wrong (we admitted that our minds were wandering everywhere ... except in the ashram :-) As of now, our campers for week 4 have successfully sat silently for the longest period of time! Good going, kids!!! Our challenge for next week is to top 4 minutes. We definitely think we can do it!

Because we had so many birthdays in the last week or so, Uncle got hold of the lyrics of "Janmadina Geeta," (written and composed by Guruji) and taught it to us. What an absolutely beautiful song!! Though the song is written in Sanskrit, Uncle shared with us the English meaning: "O Dear Friend, May this birthday bring auspiciousness and joy to you forever. Indeed we all pray for your long life. May the Lord always protect you. By noble deeds, may you attain fame and may your life be fulfilled." Please click here for the Sanskrit lyrics, transliteration, and translation. We agreed that from now on we will sing this beautiful song for all of our birthdays!

Afterwards, we spent a few minutes sharing our favorite things about the camp. Some liked spinning, some liked the art projects, some liked reading the books in our library, some liked playing frisbee or basketball ... but all agreed that we liked making new friends -- and new family members.

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: July 17 (click here to view)

Comments: Today was the last day for week 4 -- and we are sad to see some of our camper friends leave for the rest of the summer. We hope all of you had as much fun as we did -- and we hope you will continue to chant the shlokas and Medha Sukhtam with love in your heart and confidence in your voice. And, don't forget, we'll be looking for you in the hallways when Balavihar starts in the fall!

We are pleased and proud that so many of the children are exploring cotton spinning ... there has been such an eagerness to pull out the takhlis and book charkhas and give them a whirl! Some of the boys have already produced a couple of skeins of good, solid cotton -- and are planning to use their cotton for a weaving project. Talk about impressive work ... takes a lot of patience, perservence, and focus to do this!

We found a really great, albeit short, video of Gandhiji spinning cotton on a book charkha to show the kids. It was quite touching and exciting for us to see the Mahatma sitting peacefully, doing what he loved most. Click here to view the video on YouTube.

Because so many of the children have finished their torans, we set up some extra art stations for the day. Some of the children opted for cross stitching bookmarks. But many of the kids made a Lord Ganesha out of clay. Check out our photo gallery for the pictures. Each one is truly unique and precious.

We hope you all have a nice, coooool, weekend. Look forward to seeing you bright and early Monday morning.

July 16, 2009

2009-07-16T18:38:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting:

• Praarthanaa with Panditji. (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 3)
• Medha Sukhtam with Panditji. (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)

Bhajans: None

Storytime with Swamiji: Swamiji sat with the children and reviewed the story of Prahlada. We only got through half of the story -- so we will continue the rest tomorrow.

Art Projects: Toran making, beadweaving, and cotton spinning

Shaanti Circle Discussion: The kids did it again! After morning prayers, everyone sat very nicely and silently (without much restlessness) for 4 minutes. And, we are proud to share that nearly everyone got the pebble count correctly! The aunties are thinking that maybe the children are ready to meet the challenge of 5 minutes ...

After our Vedic Chanting we gathered in our Shaanti Circle to practice spinning. Everyone paired up with a partner and took turns practicing the "flick" to get the takhli spinning. We were all challenged to see who could spin the longest. We think someone was able to count up to 70+ before the takhli peetered out! We will sit together in a group again tomorrow and learn how to draw cotton from a pooni to make yarn. Once the kids have the spin down, it will be a breeze for them to focus on the cotton draw.

We spent some time today continuing our discussion of the Chinmaya Pledge. First we talked about the definition of "Pledge." -- and did we really realize that everytime we said this pledge we were making a promise -- to God, others and ourselves -- to try and fulfill all the different values and ideals that are so richly outlined. Some of the children shared their favorite parts, and when someone mentioned "producing more that what we consume and giving more than what we take," we took a few minutes and talked about what exactly this means. We also talked a little about the word "sacrifice." We all agreed that sacrificing -- willing and lovingly giving something up that we desire -- is difficult. But when we keep doing it, eventually it becomes easier and easier -- and that nothing feels greater than giving happiness and joy to others. We talked about how Sheela Auntie shared her experiences with Gurudev yesterday ... and told us how she witnessed Swami Chinmayanandaji continuously giving joy and happiness to others -- and much he loved everyone.

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: July 16 (click here to view)

Comments: Our vedic chanting was okay this morning. Panditji said that our word pronounciation was good, but that we needed to pay closer attention to the intonation marks in the book. Tomorrow we will chant our Medha Sukhtam without a book -- so all the campers should get lots of good rest tonight :-) Also, we will practice chanting Praarthanaa when Swamiji enters the ashram. This is a vedic chant that is used whenever we are receiving a Swamiji -- so we are very grateful to learn this chant!

The children have finished their torans. Everything is now drying in the ashram and will be ready to send home tomorrow. Please remind your child to pack up their art work -- we will do the same :-) They really did such a lovely job with their work, and we are very satisfied seeing all the different, unique pieces!

We heard through the grapevine that tomorrow is going to be a scorcher of a day. Please make sure to pack an extra set of clothes for your child. We were very lucky this afternoon -- Uncle brought in his swim wear and took the kids to the field for a massive hose down! Yes kids, we think we saw him hang up his swimsuit in the ashram to dry -- so we're guessing that he's getting ready for another fun wet day tomorrow :-) Parents: You should have heard the scream of excitement from the kids when they learned that today was Hose Down Day ...

The aunties thank you, big time, Uncle!

Parents: Please note that Sri Swami Siddhanandaji will be bringing Dr. Vijayan to Vrindavan at 2.00 p.m. tomorrow to address our Summer Campers. If any of you are interested in joining this program, please do. You may learn more about Dr. Vijayan by visiting Chinmaya Mission Kedar's website at: www.chinmayakedar.org.

July 15, 2009

2009-07-15T19:51:00.000-04:00

July 14, 2009

2009-07-14T19:05:00.000-04:00

July 13, 2009

2009-07-13T18:43:00.000-04:00

July 10, 2009

2009-07-10T20:01:00.000-04:00

July 8, 2009

2009-07-08T20:14:00.000-04:00

July 6, 2009

2009-07-06T19:34:00.000-04:00

Shaanti Circle Discussion: We talked about how today was a very special day, Guru Poornima -- and how much we love our Guru, Swami Chinmayanandaji. We saw a small video clip of Gurudev with children (click here to view) and then Swamiji spoke about how much we need a Guru in our life. Then all the children chanted Guru Stotram (My Prayers, page 9.)

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: July 6 (click here to view)

Comments: First we want to welcome all of our new campers! Because we had so much to cover today, we didn't get a chance to do our jelly bean introduction game -- so, we'll put that on our agenda for tomorrow.

Today was a very special day in our camp. Being that it is Guru Poornima, we were very lucky to have satsang with Swamiji and learn about the importance of one's Guru -- how it is our Guru who bring us closer to God. Swamiji told the children that our Guru, Swami Chinmayananda's name (Chinmaya) means "full of knowledge" -- and that is exactly what our Gurudev was all about!

Swamiji also reviewed our mantra which he taught us on Friday, "OM Sri Krishna Sharanam Mama." For the children who were not present last week, we also reviewed about how the Tulsi Plant is considered Goddess Lakshmi -- and that this is Lord Vishnu's favorite plant.

Our art project this week will be based on this special mantra. For the first altar book, each child will use a postcard picture of Lord Krishna and Radha, and decorate it. We started the art class by drawing 2 star shaped images onto watercolor paper, cutting them out, and painting them light pink. Once the cutting and painting was done, the children wet the paper again and formed the petals into a lotus flower. We then took 5 Tulsi beads and strung them onto wire, forming a small circle and glued it into the center of the the Lotus. Afterwards, the kids decorated with gold glitter -- and the lotuses are now drying, waiting to be placed onto their books tomorrow (or the day after.) The older children were able to cover their book boards today...the younger ones will begin this process tomorrow.

And, to make our day even more special -- our butterflies have begun to emerge from their chrysallis. By the end of the afternoon, we had 6 little guys flittering about. We checked the net periodically throughout the day -- and were blessed to actually see a little butterfly working his way out! It was truly a miracle to be able to witness this ... and everyone was so excited to see the little chrysallis shake. No doubt, by morning we will have almost all 50 butterflies eating the watermelon and orange slices we left out for them. We're really looking forward to see what's waiting for us in the morning!

July 3, 2009

2009-07-03T19:31:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting: Medha Sukhtam with Panditji. (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)

Bhajans:

Storytime with Swamiji: Today we finished the movie with Swamiji about Prahlada.

Art Projects: Finished knotting our Tulsi Bead Japa Malas.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: Seeing that this is the last day of the week, we thought it would be really good to review some of the words we have been definining over the past few days. We talked about ahimsa -- and how we should practice it with our thoughts, our words and our actions. We also reviewed what "humility" means. We planned to talk about our next favorite word, "Satya (truth)," during the afternoon -- but had a nice surprise satsang with Swamiji instead. So, we'll pick up where we left off on Monday.

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: July 3 (click here to view)

Comments: Its hard to believe that Week Two of Summer Camp is now over. The summer is passing very quickly ...

Today we chanted our Medha Sukhtam without any text in front of us -- and we were so pleased to hear that many of the children have the first part of the chant memorized. We think it even surprised them! Panditji has been working so diligently and kindly with us on a daily basis, and the kids are really absorbing this chant. We will begin a new chant on Monday -- and can't wait to learn which one it is. For all of our campers: Don't forget to chant Medha Sukhtam every morning, before going to school. Remember what Swamiji and Panditji shared with us about this vedic chant -- Medha Devi (Goddess Sarasvati) will bless us with a sharp, photographic memory, if we continue to chant this daily.

We had a wonderful satsang with Swamji today. From our previous blogs, everyone knows by now that we have been knotting our tulsi bead japa malas. Well, today was the day that the children completed their japa malas and Swamiji sat with the children and explained how to properly use them. He also gave us a mantra to chant daily -- "OM Sri Krishna Sharanam Mama." He taught us that the Tulsi Japa Mala is only used for chanting mantras for Lord Vishnu. We learned that the Tulsi plant is Goddess Lakshmi. Some children didn't know what a Tulsi plant looked like, so Swamiji had his brought in so they could see it. He also explained how the beads were made from the stalk of the plant. He even shared with us why the Tulsi plant is considered a sacred plant. Everyone learned alot -- and we are really grateful to have had this time with him!!

A big "Hari OM" to all of our friends who will not be with us next week ... we really had such a great time with you -- and look forward to meeting up with you again when Balavihar starts in the fall. In the meantime, please remember to chant your shlokas with full love in your heart, and do it every day. Also, don't foget the mantra Swamiji taught us today ...

Have a peaceful weekend!

July 2, 2009

2009-07-02T18:49:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting: Medha Sukhtam with Swamiji. (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)

Bhajans: Radhe Govinda (My Prayers)

Storytime with Swamiji: Today we saw a movie with Swamiji about Narada and Prahlada.

Art Projects: Started knotting our Tulsi Bead Japa Malas.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: Today after our morning prayers, we combined our concentration games -- and boy, did the kids do great!!! We first began with sitting absolutely silent for 4 minutes. And then after four minutes our group leader started dropping pebbles into a pan. Once all the pebbles had been dropped, we asked the children to open their eyes and tell us how many pebbles were in the pan. Nearly everyone got the correct answer!!!!

We continued our discussion on charkha spinning and what khaadi represented to the world during India's struggle for Independence. We had planned on setting up the charkha station today, but as it turned out, our day was so busy that we didn't get a chance to bring them out. We will make another attempt tomorrow.

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: July 2 (click here to view)

Comments: Tomorrow (Friday) everyone will chant Medha Sukhtam without our text in front of us. Seems like everyone is ready to meet the challenge!! We hear our little ones chanting little bits of Medha Sukhtam throughout the day in the ashram while running around -- and they don't even know they are doing it!

Everyone is getting excited about our Ashram pets (Painted Lady Butterflies) emerging from their chrysallis. We will have some watermelon on hand starting Monday of next week, for that special day when we release them. During our circle time today, we talked about how we are very much like our little butterfly friends ... how all of our different activities throughout the day (storytime with Swamiji, yoga, vedic chanting, arts, play, etc.) is transforming us, much like the caterillars are experiencing transformation ... and that in the end all of these activities will make us free -- just like the butterflies.

July 1, 2009

2009-07-02T06:23:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting: Medha Sukhtam with Swamiji. (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)

Bhajans:

Storytime with Swamiji: Swamiji told the story of Narada and Prahlada.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: After our morning prayers, we played another concentration game. Everyone had to sit quietly, with their eyes closed. After a period of silence, the group leader dropped a number of pebbles into a pan ... first slowly, then more quickly, then slowly again, etc. After all the pebbles had been dropped, we went around the room to have everyone tell us how many pebbles there were. Some said 24, some said, 25, some said 20, and some said 22. The actual number was 22! We'll going to do this same game tomorrow, combined with the "Time Game.

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: July 1 (click here to view)

Comments: Today during our Vedic Chanting, Swamiji asked the children how many knew the first few lines of the Medha Sukhtam -- and we were thrilled that many of the kids raised their hands! Of course, Swamiji then asked them recite it for us :-) And they did. Panditji will be back again on Thursday to practice with us ... and then Friday will be the big day where we chant without the written text.

We began our Tulsi bead japa mala today. Every camper and volunteer will be making this very special mala. Hopefully, we will have them completed by the end of the week. (We needed to practice some more knotmaking today.) When our japa malas are complete, Swamiji will sit with all of us and teach us the importance of the japa mala and how to use them correctly. This is definitely our incentive to finish as quickly as we can!

Now that most of the independent stations are well situated, we were able to set up a Charkha spinning area. One of the adult sevikas spent some time with a group of children explaining the importance of cotton spinning as India was fighting for Independence from the British. We also talked about how Mahatma Gandhi saw spinning as an expression of meditating on the Lord. Everyone had alot of fun assembling the book charkhas. We really hope that every child will come to this station and experience this amazing piece of Indian history. There is so much contained in this little machine -- history, science, meditation, craft and fun.

Our teen volunteers surprised JQ aunty with a wonderful, tasty lunch buffet today. Boy, was that food delicious! We are truly blessed to have such wonderful teens with us. Not only are they fantastic with the campers, but they are responsible, fun loving and big-hearted kids! They are truly the best role models we can have for our younger children. Parents: When your children come home at the end of the day talking about all the fun they had, just know it's mainly due to these teen volunteers ...

June 30, 2009

2009-06-30T19:48:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting: Medha Sukhtam with Panditji. (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)

Bhajans:

Storytime with Swamiji: Swamiji told the story of Lord Vishnu's third avatara, Varaaha. We also got to watch a movie on Varaaha.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: After our morning prayers, we played a game to see if we knew what three minutes felt like. Many of the children thought they knew, so we asked them to close their eyes and raise their hands when they thought three minutes were up. They were not allowed to giggle or shift their body at all ... instead they had to remain perfectly still -- and quiet. We must say that these children did great!! Many of them were pretty close to estimating the correct time -- and truthfully, we think they could have sat longer. Perhaps we'll up the time to 4 minutes at our next session :-)

After our "time game" we spent a few minutes talking about Mahatma Gandhi and how important he is (and was) to India and the world. Some of the children did not know what he looked like, so we had some books and photographs available so they could see him. We also had a Book Charkha and brass takhli (hand spindle) out so that we could show the children what cotton spinning was. We began a discussion on our very favorite word "ahimsa" and its definition. We explored the many different ways in which we can be harmful to others ... in our words, actions and thoughts.

During our afternoon circle time we spent a few minutes talking about the word "humility" and its definition. After the children shared their ideas, we then read the book "Once a Mouse ..." by Marcia Brown. (This is a famous Indian fable about a Rshi and a mouse.) We talked about how important it is to be modest and humble -- in all of our thoughts and actions.

Art Project: The younger children spent some time designing a picture of MatsyaH (Lord Vishnu's first avatara.) Tomorrow we will have them turn it into a pop-up card. You can view some of their drawings in today's photo Gallery.

The older children mainly worked on bead looms and Lego Science kits.

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: June 30 (click here to view)

Comments: Tomorrow (Wednesday) we will will set up a charkha spinning station so that each child can spend a few minutes working on this machine ... even the youngest children will be able to experience the charkha -- because we will assign one of the aunties to be there throughout the day. We really want the children to have a hands-on connection to this important piece of Indian history.

Also, we will be setting up a station for japa mala making. The tulsi beads will be available for the children to knot. We will encourage them to complete this mala by Friday, so Swamiji can teach us how to properly hold and chant with it.

Panditji has been working wonderfully with the children as they learn Medha Sukhtam! He told us today that he will allow us to practice with the book Wednesday and Thursday -- but we will not be allowed to use our Chanting Book on Friday!! :-) We think that he will be teaching us a new one next week ... we'll definitely keep everyone posted.

Our caterpillars are now resting peacefully in their net -- if all goes well, we'll have about 40 butterflies to release by the beginning of next week. Our ashram pets ... the Painted Lady Butterflies, will be flying throughout the ashram gardens. We can't wait!

June 29, 2009

2009-06-29T22:13:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu (My Prayers, page 6)
• Karagre Vaasate (My Prayers, page 43)
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam (My Prayers, page 44)
• Guru Brahma (My Prayers, page 9, third shloka)

Vedic Chanting: Medha Sukhtam with Panditji. (Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants, page 35)

Bhajans:

• Ganesha Sharanam (My Prayers, page 7)

Storytime with Swamiji: We continued our storytime with the Churning of the Milky Ocean, the Dashavataras and then watched a film with Swamiji after lunch.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: We have 10 new campers this week -- and two of them are from Connecticut! After our morning prayers, we went around the room and introduced everyone ... asking our random "Jelly Bean Questions." We paused our discussion at 9:30 to do our Vedic Chanting with Panditji.

When the day ended and we gathered for our evening prayer, we reviewed our question that was posed on Friday "Why do we need a Guru in our life?" and "What is a Guru?" After different ideas were shared someone finally said "A Guru is our Telephone to God" which definitely brought us back to the "Telephone" Game we played Friday afternoon. We spoke a little about how easy it is to misunderstand what we hear or read (as in the case of our Telephone Game), and that we need someone who is is knowledgeable in the scriptures to interpret them for us -- and keep us on the right track. We also talked about the difference between a teacher (math, music, art, etc.) and a Guru ...

Art Project: Both grades made a pop-up card of Lord Krishna and Radha. The image came from postcards.

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: June 29 (click here to view)

Comments: Well, it looks like our caterpillars are hanging from the lids of their cups -- which means that they will soon begin the metamorphosis phase. In a week or so, we'll have some Painted Lady Butterflies flying around the ashram gardens. We'll be sure to get the some photos of the release when the day comes!

Our Vedic Chanting is coming along really nicely. Panditji will continue to work with us with Medha Sukhtam throughout this week, and then he plans to teach us another chant starting the following week.

Our tulsi beads have arrived from India. We will set up a japa mala making station on Wednesday, so that the children can knot a mala with this sacred bead.

June 26, 2009

2009-06-26T19:02:00.000-04:00

Shaanti Circle Discussion: We posed the question "Why do we need a Guru in our lives?" to the children. Then we played a quick round of "Telephone." For those of you who may not be familiar with this game: One person thinks of a word or a sentence and then whispers it into his/her neighbor's ear. Then that person whispers it in their neighbor's ear ... and so on -- until you make it completely around the circle. The object of the game is to see how distorted the word or sentence gets before it reaches back to the original speaker. Our sentence started out as "Swamiji likes oranges and wears grape colored Crocs." By the time it got to the next person it was already interpreted as "Swamiji likes oranges and wears cream colored Crocs." Somewhere in the middle, one of our youngest campers said "Swamiji has orange shoes," which then got passed on as "I like pie." So, you can imagine how distorted things became before the message got to our 30th camper! When asked what was said, our last person announced that she was told "I have no idea what she said." Before we knew it, we had to get ready for our Vedic Chanting, so unfortunately we didn't get to discuss our ideas for very long. We plan to continue our game and discussion on Monday -- and we're all going to think about "Why exactly do we need a Guru?" over the weekend.

Art Project: Both grades sewed a japa mala bag.

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: June 26 (click here to view)

Comments: Our first week of camp has come to an end. Hard to believe that its over already -- each day was filled with so much fun and energy. We will miss Sneha and Preetha. A big "Hari OM" to you both -- and keep checking the blog to hear from us. We'll look forward to seeing you again next year!

Today was a little different for us. Ramanathan Uncle paid us a surprise visit and taught us yoga for 45 minutes. The kids had an absolute blast!! He is a wonderful yoga instructor and is truly fantastic with the young ones. You can check out the fun photos of today's class in the photo gallery. He will be joining us every Friday for Yoga, so if your child wants to bring a mat, please encourage them to do so. Uncle told us, however, that it is not necessary for us to have one. Loose clothes, a smile, and good attention is all we need.

Our Bead Loom Class is now officially finished. The looms will now be set up in the independent project time for those who want to continue their weaving throughout the summer. Next week we will focus our art learning on Pop-up card structures.

We look forward to seeing all of you next week. We have some new friends joining us on Monday, so beware ... we'll be giving the "Jelly Bean Questions" after our morning prayers! In the meantime, have a super weekend -- and rest up for another fun week.

Hugs to all our campers!

June 25, 2009

2009-06-25T19:02:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu
• Karagre Vaasate
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam
• Guru Brahma

Vedic Chanting: Medha Sukhtam with Panditji.

Bhajans: Ganesha Sharanam and Subramanyam

Storytime with Swamiji: The churning of the milky ocean and how Lord Shiva got a blue neck.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: We were introduced to a new friend from Singapore today. We were very glad to have him visit us for the day and hope that he will join us again when he is in town!

Art Project: The younger grades (1-3) strung a japa mala (108 beads). The older grades (4-8) finished designing their work on graph paper and bead looms.

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: June 25 (click here to view)

Comments: Our younger children did a fabulous job counting out 108 beads for their japa mala -- counting up to 108 is not an easy thing to do! The children chanted "OM Namah Shivaya" with every bead they put on their string. Tomorrow we will sew a felted bag to safely store the malas in. If there is time the children will decorate their bags with beads and fabric paint.

The older children continued weaving on their bead looms -- many of them working on their original designs. We are very proud of their patience and perservence in plotting their ideas on graph paper and then diligently executing their work ... bead by bead. Do take time to browse the gallery to view their work.

The Lego Science Kits came out today -- our teen volunteers worked with the campers to create motorized cars that the kids raced in the ashram ... it got pretty loud there a few times :-)

It was definitely a hot and humid day -- the kind that takes the starch completely out of you. Sooooo, the kids finally got hosed down in the field -- truly some good water fun! Most of the children took their wet clothes home at the end of the day. However, if you notice that your child is in clothes that you did not dress them in (and you don't see any clothes in their backpack) please check the drying line at the ashram. Chances are that the clothes are there. Just so you know ... everything unclaimed goes into the lost in found box at the end of the week.

Make sure you pack another set of shorts and t-shirt for tomorrow (Friday). We're thinking that it's going to be another water-filled afternoon.

And finally, we wish Swetha a very Happy Birthday! Today she turned 11. She shared this special day with us by bringing in some yummy ice cream sandwiches. Thank you, Swetha -- and we wish you many, many more special birthdays in the years to come.

Hope all the kids sleep good and hard tonight. The aunties definitely will :-) See you in the morning ...

June 24, 2009

2009-06-24T18:54:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu
• Karagre Vaasate
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam
• Guru Brahma

Vedic Chanting: We began our Vedic Chanting today, and we definitely are excited about our first class! Panditji is teaching Medha Sukhtam (page 35 in our Chanting Book.) Everyone is learning this chant -- including all the aunties and youth volunteer. This is such a great opportunity for us -- none of us want to squander this blessing.

Bhajans: Ganesha Sharanam and Subramanyam

Storytime with Swamiji: MatsyaH Avatara (movie), the second half.

Shaanti Circle Discussion: We met our new auntie and two new students today. After they introduced themselves, we asked them our "Jelly Bean Questions." Ruchi Auntie actually sang us her favorite song -- we were impressed. Good going, Ruchi Auntie ...

Art Project: The younger grades (1-3) made a beaded MatsyaH. The older grades (4 and up) finished their Hari OM bracelets and began knotting a japa mala.

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: June 24 (click here to view)

Comments: Today we began our japa mala beading. The older grades have started knotting their beads ... saying "Om Namah Shivaya" with each bead and knot. We hope to have these completed by the end of the week. If not, then they can definitely do this during their independent project time or the following week. We have been waiting for a shipment of Tulsi Beads to arrive from India ... and, unfortunately, it looks like they will not be here this week. Once they arrive, we will encourage the children to knot another japa mala with these sacred beads.

Some of the old children have begun designing their own bead patterns on graph paper and are weaving them on the bead looms. Definitely check out our budding artists' work on today's picture galleries.

The younger children worked on a MatsyaH bead buddie -- to hang on their backpacks. Thus far, this week we have completed a turtle (kuurmaH), a mouse (muuShakaH), and a fish (matsyaH). Tomorrow they will begin to string 108 beads for a japa mala.

It was really inspiring to hear the children recite Medha Sukhtam after panditji. He had us repeat every word two times, making sure that our pronounciation and intonation was correct. Swamiji explained to us that by learning and chanting the Medha Sukhtam, daily, our memories will become crystal clear and sharp -- and some of the "older" volunteers seemed pretty psyched about this!

We ended our day with a very special celebration for Maya and Marisha's birthday. Maya turned 9 today, and Marisha turned 6 a few weeks ago. We wish them a very Happy Birthday, and many many more for years to come! Their father and grandmother brought in a yummy cake which disappeared in no time at all. The kids devoured it -- and we were very happy to learn that this delicious concoction was 100% egg free. Many thanks Maya and Marisha!

We've been promising the kids a massive hose down -- and we're thinking tomorrow (Thursday) is going to be the day. Please have them wear waterproof shoes (if they have). Flip flops or Crocs are really good.

June 23, 2009

2009-06-23T15:00:00.000-04:00

Morning Prayers Recited:

• Om Saha naavatu
• Karagre Vaasate
• Sarasvati Namastubhyam
• Guru Brahma

Vedic Chanting: We will start Wednesday.

Bhajans: None

Storytime with Swamiji: MatsyaH Avatara (movie)

Shaanti Circle Discussion: We learned how to use Ahimsa, to keep our hands to ourselves and to use nicer words to vent out our anger. We also discussed family values and what makes up a family. Finally we learned the meaning of "Shanti" and peace and how we should treat other people.

Art Project: Beaded Mice ("mooshakaH"), Hari OM bracelets, and learning the knots for our japa mala.

End of Class Prayers: Poornamadah, Chinmaya Pledge

Photo Gallery: June 23 (click here to view)

Comments: We had lots of fun playing outside in the sun today!! Be sure and check out the really cool drawings on the pavement when you view the pic gallery. Chalk artwork seems to be a big hit with everyone ... along with the super duper bubble solution. Yesterday our caterpillars arrived and we were very busy seeing to it that they got safely transferred to their individual little cups. Right now they seem pretty small ... but in a few weeks they will become "pleasantly plump" as they get ready to begin to spin their coccon for the metamorphisis stage. We are looking forward to the day when these little guys will emerge into Painted Lady butterflies and be released in the Ashram gardens.

Swamiji shared a movie with us today on the MatsyaH avatara. It felt like we were in a movie house! He projected the serial onto a wall which filled a big portion of the satsang area. We'll get the second half tomorrow -- when the downpour and flood begins. Manu has just been told what is about to occur by Lord Vishnu ... we're at a cliff hanger ...

Our first vedic chanting class begins tomorrow. We've been talking about this class for two days now, and everyone is getting really excited to begin! Not only is Wednesday supposed to be an auspicious day to begin our chanting -- but the rest of our camper friends will be joining us. School is now officially out in New Jersey -- today was the last day!!

Definitely come back tomorrow to hear all about our new experiences!

Hari Om!

2009-06-10T11:27:00.000-04:00

Dear Parents,

We are very excited to have your child join us for summer camp at the Ashram -- just a few more weeks and all the fun activities will begin! However, before we forget, we'd like to bring a few reminders to your attention:

1) Please bookmark this summer camp blog. All announcements, schedules, and camp contact info will be posted here. Also, our teenage volunteers will be submitting daily updates of the children's activities and photographs -- so, this will definitely be a fun blog to visit on a regular basis.

2) We request that you purchase two books for your child's learning this summer. One is "My Prayers," and the other is "Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants." We will be using both texts throughout the summer, and they will be available for purchase at the camp. "My Prayers" is $5.00 and "Vedic Chants" is $10.00.

3) Please make sure that you have submitted the Emergency Contact and Health Form on or before the day your child begins camp. This form can be downloaded and found on the left side of this blog (under "Camp Schedules, Guidelines and Forms".)

4) Be sure and read "Things to Pack and Bring" (click here to view.) We certainly want your child to be as comfortable as he/she can be!

Guess that's about it for now ...

We know your child is going to have a wonderful and rewarding camp experience -- and we are really looking forward to spending a fun summer with them!

With warmest regards,
Camp Sevikas

Hari Om!

2009-04-18T18:21:00.000-04:00

Dear Parents and Volunteers,

As we approach June, please be sure to visit this site on a regular basis. This on-line journal will be an important communication tool for the camp. Once our summer activities begin, we will be providing daily updates. For parents of campers, we suggest you subscribe (see bottom of this post.) If you subscribe, you will receive an email every time a post has been created or updated. It's easy, and the best thing is you don't have to think about checking the site – you'll get a notice when something is changed.

All of the camp daily activity schedules, guidelines, and registration forms can be found on the left side of this blog. Be sure and look there if you are supposed to fill anything out for us or if you have any questions about scheduling.

And, most importantly, please don't hesitate to drop us a note at cmcranbury@gmail.com, if you have any questions or require further information – we will be happy to get back to you as soon as we can.

We are really looking forward to spending a fun summer with your children!

Warm regards,
The Camp Sevikas

Sanskrit

2008-12-31T22:56:00.000-05:00

Chinmaya International Foundation's Sanskrit Program. This course is designed for children and adults (ages 10 and above). Truly a great on-line class — beautifully organized and very understandable! Click here to learn more information.

Sanskrit Bhaarati (click here for site)
Learn Sanskrit (click here for site)
On-Line Dictionary (Sanskrit – English) click here for site

Hindi

2008-12-31T22:51:00.000-05:00

A Door Into Hindi (on line Hindi Lessons)
Hindi Program at Penn State (audio only)

Devanagari Learning

2008-12-31T22:45:00.000-05:00

Learn Devanagari, The Australian National University
Learn Devanagari, A learning resource for Hindi students

Chinmaya Mission Pledge

2008-12-31T19:00:00.001-05:00

We stand as one family
bound to each other with love and respect.

We serve as an army,
courageous and disciplined,
ever ready to ﬁght against
all low tendencies and false values
within and without us.

We live honestly
the noble life of sacriﬁce and service
producing more than what we consume
and giving more than what we take.

We seek the Lord’s grace
to keep us on the path of virtue, courage and wisdom.
May Thy grace and blessings ﬂow
through us to the world around us.

We believe that the service of our country
is the service of the Lord of Lords,
and devotion to the people
is the devotion to the Supreme Self.

We know our responsibilities;
give us the ability and courage to fulﬁll them.

OM TAT SAT

Ten Restraints, The Yamas

2008-12-31T19:00:00.000-05:00

1. Noninjury (ahimsaa.) Not harming others by thought, word or deed.

2. Truthfulness (satya.) Refraining from lying and betraying promises.

3. Nonstealing (asteya.) Not stealing, coveting or entering into debt.

4. Divine conduct (brahmacharya.)

5. Patience (kshamaa.) Restraining intolerance with people and impatience with circumstances.

6. Steadfastness (dhRiti.) Overcoming nonperserverance, fear, indecision and changeableness.

7. Compassion (dayaa.) Conquering callous, cruel and insensitive feelings toward all beings.

8. Honesty, straightforwardness (aarjava.) Renouncing deception and wrongdoing.

9. Moderate appetite (mitaahaara.) Neither eating too much nor consuming meat, fish, fowl or eggs.

10. Purity (shaucha.) Avoiding impurity in body, mind and speech.

Eat When You Are Alone (Chinmaya Vidyalaya)

2008-12-31T18:58:00.000-05:00

One day a teacher was taking a class. The day's lesson was on God. The teacher told the students that God was everywhere – present in each object and in every man. The teacher who was a great devotee explained vividly how the Lord peeped out at the world through each and every living thing. The children were very much impressed with the lesson and went on asking several questions about God. The teacher was happy to find them so enthusiastic.

The next day the teacher brought nice ripe plantains for the students and distributed them to all. He told them to take the fruit to a lonely place and eat them where no one saw them.

All the boys nodded their heads and soon ran out of the class room. Within fifteen minutes all the children returned except one. When asked by the teacher, each boy said that he went to a lonely place and ate the plantain.

After half an hour the last boy returned. The plantain was still in his hands. Everyone looked at him in surprise. Why did he not eat his fruit? The teacher asked the boy, "Why didn't you eat your fruit?"

The boy replied, "Sir, you told us yesterday that God was present in all beings and peeped out through them into the world. When you asked me to eat the fruit in a lonely place where no looked at me, I ran to every nook and corner, but I didn't find it lonely. Under the bushes, God looked at me through the tiny squirrels. Under the trees He looked at me through the birds. In the house, he looked at me through the ants and sparrows. When I went to the lake, He looked at me through the fish and lotuses. I couldn't find a place where He was not present. Therefore I couldn't eat the fruit."

The teacher was very happy with the boy who could see God everywhere. He embraced him and said, "Son, you are correct. God watches through all the beings. So when you have to eat or drink anything, first offer the food to Him and then eat it as His prasad."

The boy obeyed his teacher and felt very happy, because the plantain tasted sweeter knowing it was the Lord's prasad.

– Chinmaya Vidyalaya, Tarangini Four. By Swami Chinmayananda and Swamini Sharada Priyananda

The Niyamas (Ten Practices)

2008-12-31T18:51:00.000-05:00

1. Remorse (hrii.) Being modest and showing shame for misdeeds.

2. Contentment (santosha.) Seeking joy and serenity in life.

3. Giving (daana.) Tithing and giving generously without thought of reward.

4. Faith (aastikya.) Believing firmly in God, Gods, guru and the path to enlightenment.

5. Worship of the Lord (Ishvarapuujana.) Cultivating devotion through daily worship and meditation.

6. Scriptural listening (siddhaanta shravaNa.) Studying the teachiings and listening to the wise of one's lineage.

7. Cognition (mati.) Developing a spiritual will and intellect with the guru's guidance.

8. Sacred vows (vrata.) Fulfilling religious vows, rules and observances faithfully.

9. Recitation (japa.) Chanting mantras daily.

10. Austerity (tapas.) Performing saadhana, penance, tapas and sacrifice.

Some Suggested Reading ...

2008-12-31T18:21:00.000-05:00

Books for Kids on Vegetarianism (all age groups)
Mahagiri
Once A Mouse ...

Put It In Order!

2008-12-31T15:50:00.000-05:00

Here is another fun, silent game which involves organizational skills and working together as a team.

The game leader sets a time limit (say 2 minutes) and tells everyone to SILENTLY arrange themselves in a line according to shoe size (smallest to biggest). You can also do it by age, height, etc.

The object is for the children to quietly work together for an overall goal -- within a specific time frame. Those who can't find their place in the line, when the time is up, are out of the game.

All Tied Up ...

2008-12-31T15:46:00.000-05:00

This is a good game that involves working together as a team!

1. Everyone stands in a circle.
2. Each person reaches their left hand out and takes someone else's left hand.
3. Then everyone reaches their right hand out and takes someone else's right hand. (Each person must be holding 2 different people's hands.)
4. Challenge everyone to untangle themselves into a circle again.

If the group is too large, it might be good to break up into 2 groups. No more than 10 to a group. Numbers of group must be even.

What Kind of Animal Are You?

2008-12-31T14:37:00.000-05:00

Have the children sit in a circle. Ask each child "If you were an animal, what kind of animal would you like to be and why?" "What kinds of things do you like about that animal?" "What special qualities does this animal have?" etc...

Our objective with this is to encourage empathy and connection with animals. We will also use this exercise in our discussions on vegetarianism.

This discussion can also be expanded to include the insect world, also!

M&M Game

2008-12-31T14:33:00.000-05:00

Pass around a bowl of M&Ms and ask each child to take a small handful (no more than 6 or 7). Once the M&Ms have been distributed, tell them that they have to answer a question for each color they have.

For example: Red = Who is your favorite God or Goddess? Blue = Who is your favorite role model? Green = What is your favorite bhajan?, etc...

They get to eat the M&M only after they have answered the question!

Videos of Temples, Historic Sites and Cultural Learning

2008-12-31T14:30:00.000-05:00

Documentaries
by 7 Wonders of India

Click on title to view.
Rameshwarm
Thanjavur Chola Temple
Mahabalipuram
Meenakshi Temple
Vivekanandan Rock
Tirupati
Sun Temple, Konark
Rani ki Vav, Patan
Dwarkadhish Temple
Mathur Hanging Bridge
Lakshman Temple
Ujjain
Silent Valley National Park, Kerala
Kanha National Park
Ajanta Ellora Caves
64 Yoginis Temple at Hirapur
Dholavira Site, Kutch District
Nalanda University

Click on title to view.
History of the Sun Temple, Konark Orissa
Dwarka: A Lost City
Dholavira, Gujarat
Varanas i by One More Life Production
Ganga Night Puja (Varanasi) by One More Life Production (10 minute film)
Festival of the Goddess Durga by Asian Art Museum, San Francisco CA
Paper Mache Ganesha Idols in Hindi with English sub-titles
Culture Unplugged: The Green Warriors of Thar (Bishnoi Community, Rajasthan)
Appiko -- To Embrace
Amrita Devi (Bishnoi, Rajasthan)
Nanda Devi, Himalayas (Documentary of the biosphere, UNESCO, World Heritage Site)
Celebrating Warli Art (with Shri Jivya Mhashe)
Geru (Brief documentary on making Warli Paintings)

"I Am ..."

2008-12-31T14:19:00.000-05:00

This is a fun "introduce yourself" game. Have the children sit in a circle. The first child says "I am Awesome Ananya." The second child says this is "Awesome Ananya and I am Rowdy Ramesh." The third child says this is "Awesome Ananya, Rowdy Ramesh and I am Mighty Maya." and so on ... The adjective the child chooses must start with the first letter of their name and be a word they think describes them. If the children are really young, they can choose a word with the same sound.

Counting Pebbles

2008-12-31T14:11:00.000-05:00

This game was shared at Vibhooti Chinmaya Mission Camp -- and it is absolutely brilliant!!

All the children sit in a circle with their eyes closed. The circle leader then takes a handful of pebbles (or marbles) and drops them into a metal pot. First very rhymically, slowly, -- then speeds up a little ... and slows down again. It is important to vary the rhythm of dropping the marbles so that the children really must focus on their counting. When all the items have been dropped, go around the circle and ask each child how many marbles are in the pot.

How Long Is A Minute?

2008-12-31T14:06:00.000-05:00

This game will be our "Shaanti Circle" exercise in learning how to quieten ourselves. Our circle leader (with a watch in hand) will ask all the children to close their eyes and sit silently. Then, the circle leader will ask the children to raise their hands when they think a minute has passed. The one closest to a minute wins.

We will increase our time to 2 minutes, 3 minutes, etc. as the summer progresses (and when the children are ready.)

Lay Your Burden Down on Me

2008-12-31T12:07:00.000-05:00

© Sheela Kirpalani, 2009
Written and composed by Sheela Kirpalani
For personal use only. All rights and privileges are solely owned by the writer and composer.

(chorus)
Lay your burden down on Me.
Lay your burden down on Me.
Lay your burden down,
Then those troubles won't keep coming around and around
(If you) Lay your burden down on Me.

Take my hand and walk with Me.
Take my hand and walk with Me.
Take my hand and walk with Me,
And put an end to all of your misery,
Take my hand and walk with Me.

Step by step we'll walk along.
Step by step we'll walk along.
Step by step we'll walk along,
And then our hearts will be overflowing with song,
Step by step we'll walk along.

(chorus)
Lay your burden down on Me.
Lay your burden down on Me.
Lay your burden down,
Then those troubles won't keep coming around and around
(If you) Lay your burden down on Me.

From now on you'll never walk alone.
From now on you'll never walk alone.
From now on you'll never walk alone,
For now you're with Me and you've finally come home.
From now on you'll never walk alone.

(chorus)
Lay your burden down on Me.
Lay your burden down on Me.
Lay your burden down,
THen those troubles won't keep coming around and around
(If you) Lay your burden down on Me.

Swami Chinmayananda

2008-12-31T11:59:00.000-05:00

© Sheela Kirpalani, 2009
Written and composed by Sheela Kirpalani
For personal use only. All rights and privileges are solely owned by the writer and composer.

O, Swami Chinmayananda
His Love you give to everyone.
You teach the Knowledge of Perfection.
And show us all that we are one.

(chorus)
I see your saffron robes a-flowing,
With every step in perfect stride.
And your face is always showing
The real Truth is inside.

The sun and moon can see you passing.
Both through the day and through the night.
And watching them I can acknowledge,
That is is you who has taken flight.

(chorus)
I see your saffron robes a-flowing,
With every step in perfect stride.
And your face is always showing
The real Truth is inside.

O, Swami Chinmayananda,
What is this game we're here to play?
Will we be wise enough tomorrow
To know it wasn't real, anyway?

(chorus)
I see your saffron robes a-flowing,
With every step in perfect stride.
And your face is always showing
The real Truth is inside.

Sri Krishna

2008-12-31T11:52:00.000-05:00

Crested jeweled peacock feathered
Curly locked Sri Kirishna
Come to me, come to me
Playing Thy flute – Sri Krishna

Yellow silken robed one
Crossed legged blue boy, Sri Krishna
Oh beautiful, oh wonderful
Oh beautiful, oh wonderful
Oh Lord of all – Sri Krishna

(Chorus)
Sri Krishna, Jai Sri Krishna
Come to me, oh Lord Krishna
I am thine, Thou are mine
I am thine, Thou are mine
Forever and ever, Sri Lord Krishna
Forever and ever, Sri Lord Krishna

Milk and butter
Fruit and flowers
Milk and butter
Fruit and flowers
Waiting for you Sri Krishna
Gopi Radha ever in tears
Longing for You, Sri Krishna

(Chorus)
Sri Krishna, Jai Sri Krishna
Come to me, oh Lord Krishna
I am Thine, Thou are mine
I am Thine, Thou are mine
Forever and ever, Sri Lord Krishna
Forever and ever, Sri Lord Krishna

Things to Pack and Bring

2008-12-31T10:57:00.000-05:00

"My Prayers" and "Chinmaya Book of Vedic Chants"
Both books are published by Chinmaya Mission. We will have copies available for purchase at the ashram. These books will be used throughout the summer -- therefore, we request your child have their own copy during camp.

Vegetarian Lunch and Snack (no eggs)
Please pack healthy foods and try to refrain from items with high sugar content. We love to see the children eat fresh fruits, yogurt, multi-grains, legumes, and vegetables! We have microwaves available for re-heating. We are not able to cook, however.

Smock or Old Shirt
Some of our art class projects can be a little messy. We will be working with modeling clay, papier mache, and paint throughout the summer.

Sunblock/Sun Cap
The children will be spending some time outdoors on a daily basis ... both with sports and art class projects. We do request that your child have their own sunblock. Because of allergies and sensitive skin conditions, children will not be allowed to share sunblock with one another.

One Extra Set of Clothes (including plastic flip flops)
Sometimes messes happen ... or better yet, we head outdoors for some Water Spray Fun! Please send in a full extra set of clothes for your child during his/her camp stay.

One Small Photograph of Your Child
This is for our camp files and will not be returned to you.

Film Clips of Gurudev (Swami Chinmayanandaji)

2008-12-31T10:44:00.000-05:00

Click on title to view.
Gurudev with Children
Explaining Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra
Explains the meaning of "Hari OM"
The Indivisible Truth
A film/photo montage of Gurudev's life (in Hindi)
Guidance on Spirituality Part 1/5
Guidance on Spirituality Part 2/5
Guidance on Spirituality Part 3/5
Guidance on Spirituality Part 4/5
Guidance on Spirituality Part 5/5